BJHS Editorial History and Leadership
The British Journal for the History of Science (BJHS) has maintained a distinguished legacy of scholarly excellence, guided by a succession of dedicated editors. These leaders have shaped the journal's direction, ensuring it remains a cornerstone for research in the history of science.
The journal's evolution is reflected in its leadership transitions, moving from its early foundations to its current contemporary standards of academic publishing.
Key Facts
- The current editor is Amanda Rees, who has held the position since 2019.
- The journal's lineage includes a predecessor publication known as the Bulletin of the British Society for the History of Science.
- The editorial history spans over six decades, beginning with leadership as early as 1962.
- N. H. de V. Heathcote served as the editor of the predecessor journal.
Chronology of Editorial Leadership
The leadership of the BJHS has been characterized by distinct eras, with editors typically serving terms ranging from five to seven years. This stability has allowed the journal to maintain a consistent academic voice while evolving with the field of science history.
Modern Era (2000–Present)
In recent decades, the journal has been led by scholars such as Amanda Rees, Charlotte Sleigh, and Jon Agar. These editors have managed the transition into the digital age of academic dissemination.
Foundational and Mid-Century Leadership
The journal's early years were shaped by figures like Maurice P. Crosland and H. D. Anthony. Before the current iteration of the BJHS, the Bulletin of the British Society for the History of Science served as the primary vehicle for the society's scholarly output, edited by N. H. de V. Heathcote.
| Editor | Term of Office |
|---|---|
| Amanda Rees | 2019–present |
| Charlotte Sleigh | 2014–2019 |
| Jon Agar | 2009–2014 |
| Simon Schaffer | 2004–2009 |
| Crosbie Smith | 2000–2004 |
| Janet Browne | 1994–2000 |
| John Hedley Brooke | 1989–1994 |
| David Knight | 1982–1989 |
| Nicholas W. Fisher | 1977–1982 |
| Robert Fox | 1971–1977 |
| Maurice P. Crosland | 1966–1971 |
| H. D. Anthony | 1962–1966 |
| N. H. de V. Heathcote | Predecessor Journal Editor |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current editor of the BJHS?
The current editor is Amanda Rees, who has been in the role since 2019.
What was the predecessor to the BJHS?
The predecessor journal was the Bulletin of the British Society for the History of Science.
Who edited the predecessor journal?
The predecessor journal was edited by N. H. de V. Heathcote.
How long did Janet Browne serve as editor?
Janet Browne served as the editor from 1994 to 2000.
When did the editorial terms of Jon Agar and Charlotte Sleigh overlap?
Jon Agar served from 2009 to 2014, at which point Charlotte Sleigh took over the editorship from 2014 to 2019.